I am following through on Jim’s tag about three things I like about my faith community. We have not attended church regularly for just over a year. I knew that it was not a good permanent situation for us, but couldn’t even imagine myself diving back into a conventional church setting and didn’t feel ready to begin something new. After a lot of prayer and struggle, I vacillated between connecting with a really fine house church that a friend is involved with, beginning an emerging cohort in a nearby college town, and starting something entirely new. The last option finally won out because it best fits who I am. I am a pastor and a leader at heart. The other reason is our step granddaughters. Almost a year ago, we explored the idea of beginning a church and invited some people over. One of our granddaughters came and was very receptive. I felt a responsibility (though certainly not a burden) to reach out to the girls and their friends, many of whom have been in our home several times.

So, we launched two weeks ago and my son, daughter-in-law, two granddaughters and one boyfriend came. Yesterday, both girls, two boyfriends, and two other friends came. We eat and discuss a topic they choose the week before. So far, we have hit love, trust, and next week, self image. I am unashamed about using the Bible, but try not to be very directive and just facilitate the discussion. I am amazed they come and amazed it works!

My goal is to get a couple more of these groups going at coffee shops or wherever and have a monthly large group gathering and get involved in community service.

Here are the three things I like about Commuitas (the community):

1. It is natural, built around relationships and hospitality.
2. It involves young adults. Last week, I don’t think anyone here was over 25. I like this group because they are real and raw.
3. It has a definite “God Thing” element to it. They seem to like it. It all is very amazing, a blessing, and an answer to prayer.

Grace & Peace